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$19.95
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WE 87
United States
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Cabernet & Blends
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California
In stock, 12+ available
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List $24.00
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87 points Wine Enthusiast: "[$24 list] Soft, juicy and uncomplicated, this Cab Franc immediately offers likeable cherry and sweet oak flavors. The tannins beg for steak. (Dec 2012)"
Producer notes: "'We like to produce a 100% Cabernet Franc to give people a chance to see what Cab Franc actually tastes like,' says Winemaker Kevin Hall. It tends to have a softer tannin profile than our Cabernet Sauvignon and the 2010 has flavors of plum, black cherry, vanilla, blueberry and cassis. This is not a heavy wine, but it does have broad mouthfeel and a long, juicy finish. Alcohol 14.0%. 1,520 cases produced."
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$13.95
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IWC 89
Italy
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Veneto
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Other
In stock, 12+ available
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89 points Ian D'Agata (International Wine Cellar): "Bright red Cherry-vanilla, cassis and fresh herb aromas. Juicy and sweet, offering lush red and dark berry flavors and a repeating note of vanilla. The finish features a tangy cherry note and lingers with good clarity and spicy length. (Mar/Apr 2012)"
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$14.95
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WS 88
IWC 88
WE 88
Argentina
In stock,
9
available
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List $20.00
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88 points Wine Spectator: "[$20 list] This jammy red shows layers of game and baking spice flavors to the ripe cassis and kirsch notes, which linger with a floral aftertaste. Drink now. (10/15/12)"
88 points Stephen Tanzer (International Wine Cellar): "(aged 12 months in an 80/20 blend of French and American barrels): Bright red-ruby. Blackberry and licorice aromas accented by herbs and spices. Supple, savory and fine-grained, with a nicely restrained sweetness. The tannins are well integrated but the wine's fruit is still a bit locked-up today and in need of a year or two of bottle aging. Firm and persistent on the finish. (Mar/Apr 2012)"
88 points Wine Enthusiast: "[$20 list] Fleshy and aggressive on the bouquet, this has aromas of wild berries, with leather and dried cheese accents. It feels full and weighty, with sweet, almost-stewy flavors of blackberry and plum, and supporting notes of vanilla and spice. This finishes a bit rubberry. Alcohol 15%. (Aug 2012)"
Producer notes: "This 100% Malbec wine has ripe, red fruit aromas and spicy notes, with round, soft tannins and a lively mouthfeel. This wine pairs well with grilled pork tenderloin, lamb and veal with fresh herbs. Alcohol: 15.0%."
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$7.95
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WS 89
IWC 88
Argentina
In stock, 12+ available
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89 points Wine Spectator: "A racy, floral red, offering layers of raspberry ganache, blackberry and light fig fruit that mingle with spice, spring herb and light mesquite notes. Though not a powerhouse, this is well-balanced. Malbec, Cabernet Sauvignon, Tannat and Syrah. Drink now. Smart Buys. (7/31/12)"
88 points Stephen Tanzer (International Wine Cellar): "(a blend of 75% malbec, 15% cabernet sauvignon and 5% each tannat and syrah): Cherry liqueur, menthol, violet and spicy oak on the nose and palate. Suave, supple and energetic, with a sugar/acid balance giving the mid-palate insidious intensity and good definition. Nicely rising, fine-grained finish shows good length and a light touch. Sophisticated for the price. (Mar/Apr 2012)"
Producer notes: "75% Malbec, 10% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Syrah, 5% Tannat. The wine is deep ruby red with bright, purple tones. It is very fruity, with intense aromas of cherry, raspberry and black berries such as mulberry. It has a soft chocolate touch due to oaking. The taste is fresh with a high fruit expression and spicy notes of white pepper. It is easy to drink due to its soft and round tannins. Enjoy this wine with grilled meats including game, duck, red pasta sauces, hearty comfort foods, and a variety of mild and medium cheeses. Alcohol 14.0%."
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$49.95
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AM 88
France
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Burgundy
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Cote d'Or Red
In stock,
9
available
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88 points Allen Meadows (Burghound): "A lightly spiced nose of red and blue pinot fruit has its expressiveness reduced by noticeable reduction so be sure to decant this if you're going to try one young. The lacy, pure and round mineral-inflected flavors are forward and very supple, all wrapped in a dusty, delicious and mouth coating finish. This notably pretty effort is very Chambollesque in character. Drink: 2017+. (Apr 2013)"
Jasper Morris (Inside Burgundy): "This domaine is run by Christian Amiot (one of the sons of Pierre Amiot from Morey-St-Denis) who is married to Elisabeth Servelle, daughter of Bernard Servelle-Tachot... The domaine has been farmed organically from 2003, with AB certification from the 2008 vintage. The wines taste fresh and modern although there is no great reliance on oak--20 per cent new wood is used for the village wine, and up to 50 per cent for the two top premiers crus... (2010)"
Clive Coates (The Wines of Burgundy): "Quality has improved... The wines now are very good, indeed. (2008)"
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$14.95
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JS 87
United States
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Pinot Noir
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California
In stock,
1
available
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87 points James Suckling: "Aromas of black currant and dark cherry. A medium-bodied Pinot with slightly rough tannins. The palate has some dark chocolate with a powdery finish. Drink now. Screw cap. (6/11/12)"
Producer notes: "This Pinot Noir has a brilliant deep, ruby red color with intense aromas of ripe plum, blackberry, and cherry, highlighted by spice and toasty oak. Fresh, rich ripe flavors of black cherry, cola and plum layered with a subtle touch of vanilla oak and raspberry. Aged in French oak for 10 months."
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$17.95
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WA 89
Portugal
In stock, 12+ available
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List $24.00
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89 points Mark Squires (Wine Advocate): "[$24 list] The 2010 Alvarinho 'Muros Antigos' was a warm vintage wine. A bit elevated in alcohol (13.5% here compared to 12.5% for the 2009 and 13.0% for the 2008), it is deep and powerful, fresh and clean. Its depth makes it immediately impressive, but despite the minor differences, I did think the alcohol showed just a bit here and there, at least in comparison to other vintages. It is still very fine. The 2011 looks like a step up, a sure fire 90 pointer, but at the time seen, it was so unevolved that I thought it was a bit unfair to review. Drink now-2017. (Dec 2012)"
Importer notes: "Alvarinho went from zero to 60 in terms of market penetration and now there are many indifferent examples available along with benchmarks like Soalheiro. Anselmo makes a number of different styles of Alvarinho and we selected his entry level for its precise rendition of the form and all around lip-smacking goodness. The new vintage shows even more zesty tropical fruit than the 2009."
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$22.95
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WS 88
Italy
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Tuscany
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Chianti
In stock, 12+ available
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List $35.00
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88 points Wine Spectator: "[$35 list] A thick, extracted style, displaying impressive cherry and blackberry flavors. Spice elements chime in on the burly finish. Drink now through 2018. (5/31/13)"
Producer notes: "Crafted from 90% Sangiovese and 10% Merlot, the 2010 Villa Antinori Chianti Classico Riserva is intense ruby red in color with fruit and spice aromas. Light touches from the oak aging underscore the cherry and red berry notes that are typical of the Sangiovese grape. The wine's flavors are harmonious on the palate with tannins that are balanced and ripe. The lingering finish is vibrant with a pleasing minerality, which is typical of Chianti Classico."
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$17.95
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WS 87
Italy
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Friuli-Venezia Giulia
In stock, 12+ available
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87 points Wine Spectator: "This smoky white offers hints of fresh straw, hot stone and Granny Smith apple. Light-bodied and crisp, with a mouthwatering finish. Drink now. (10/15/11)"
Producer notes: "This Pinot Grigio appears a rich straw yellow with shimmering, coppery highlights. Ripe tropical fruit, along with apple and pear, create a rich, generous bouquet, while the palate is refined, smooth, and pleasantly tangy. The finish seems near endless, showcasing abundant, crisp-edged fruit."
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$19.95
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WS 88
United States
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Chardonnay
In stock, 12+ available
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88 points Wine Spectator: "This fresh, vibrant white delivers a tangy nectarine and white peach presence, joined by a dash of chalk and mineral. Turns elegant and subtle on the finish. Drink now through 2019. (7/31/12)"
'Best Buy,' Wine & Spirits: "A warm white with scents of toast and crushed oyster shells, this wine needs a good chill and a plate of poached prawns. (Oct 2012)"
The masterful Jim Clendenen has again created a distinctive and delicious Santa Barbara Chardonnay full of spicy pear, apples and ginger. Citrus, stone fruit, smooth and integrated flavors, creamy and tense, with apricot, apple, and lemon nuances. Barrel fermented and aged in French oak. A rich, elegant wine.
Producer notes: "Burgundian in sensibility but with California style is one way of describing Jim Clendenen's Chardonnays. Structure and restraint melded with bountiful opulence is another. In the glass, buttery brioche marries with tropical fruits in an irresistible elixir that will leave the bottle drained before you know it. Try it with turbot for a match of delicacy and richness."
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$19.95
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IWC 88
United States
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Pinot Noir
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California
In stock, 12+ available
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88 points Josh Raynolds (International Wine Cellar): "Dark red. Musky, spice-accented aromas of redcurrant and cherry, with a note of cured meat in the background. A chewy, tangy midweight that offers tangy red fruit qualities and touch of bitter chocolate. Somewhat ungiving right now, finishing with good energy and tightly wound red fruit character. Give this some air or age. (Nov/Dec 2012)"
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$19.95
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JS 87
Italy
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Tuscany
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Chianti
In stock, 12+ available
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Two Glasses, Gambero Rosso: "Bibbiano is situated in a fairy-tale setting in the heart of Chianti Classico, where it has been managed by the same family since 1865. Brothers Tommaso and Federico Morracchesi Marchi today represent the fifth generation. Vineyards are located on two hillsides with marked and rather contrasting features, at altitudes between 270 and 300 metres above sea level. The wines are largely traditional in style and reflect the features of their provenance. We feel they are improving in both quality and clarity of expression. (2013)"
87 points James Suckling: "A delicately fruity wine with fine tannins and a clean finish. Dried lemon peel too. Drink now. (8/22/12)"
Producer notes: "The color of the wine is a brilliant ruby red. It is intensely scented with a fruity note of blackberries and plums. The mouthfeel is rather intense; nonetheless this wine is easy to drink, thanks to a pleasant acidity that makes it fresh and lively."
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$10.95
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IWC 89
Spain
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Red
In stock, 12+ available
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89 points Josh Raynolds (International Wine Cellar): "Vivid ruby. Intense red and dark berry aromas are given depth by a hint of licorice. Sappy and broad on entry, then tighter in the mid-palate, offering juicy black raspberry and cherry flavors and a touch of white pepper. Finishes with good lift, cut and persistence, leaving an intense dark berry note behind. This wine isn't shy about the fruit. (Sep 2012)"
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$8.95
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WE 86
South Africa
In stock, 12+ available
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List $11.00
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Producer notes: "Syrah 65%, Mourvèdre 32%, Viognier 3%. Both the Syrah and Mourvèdre component come from a Malmesbury vineyard with the Viognier sourced on Boekenhoutskloof. The reds were fermented using selected Rhone strain yeasts. French oak matured with Viognier blended prior to bottling. Egg white fined. Tasting Notes: Abundance of black fruit flavours with hints of violet. Unpretentious easy drinking with smooth tannins and sweet berries on the palate."
86 points Wine Enthusiast: "[$11 list] Bright red mixed berries are infused with a mocha streak, filling the medium weight, but juicy palate. Straightforward and enjoyable with clean fruit flavors and a short but softly spiced finish. Alcohol 14.5%. (May 2012)"
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$6.95
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RR 89
WA 88
WE 88
Spain
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Red
In stock, 12+ available
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List $8.00
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89 points Rhone Report: "A smoking value, the 2010 Bodegas Borsao Campo de Borja Garnacha, 80% Garnacha and 20% Tempranillo that's fermented and aged all in stainless steel, delivers loads of Garnacha character with upfront blackberry, mineral, sappy underbrush, pepper, and licorice aromas and flavors. Round, upfront and with juicy, edgy acidity, a medium to full-bodied mouth feel, and fine tannin on the finish, this is serious wine for not much buck. It's a perfect candidate for a house red, should be purchased by the case, and consumed over the coming 2-3 years. (Mar 2012)"
88 points Jay Miller (Wine Advocate): "[$8 list] The 2010 Borsao Tinto is composed of 85% Garnacha and 15% Tempranillo fermented and aged in stainless steel. Aromas of Asian spices, incense, violets, and assorted black fruits are surprisingly complex. Supple, concentrated, and lengthy on the palate, this excellent value will provide enjoyment over the next 4 years. (Jun 2011)"
88 points and 'Best Buy,' Wine Enthusiast: "Big, black and alive in the glass, with earth and black fruit aromas. The mouth is lively and pure, with blackberry and red plum flavors covering both the dark and red fruit bases. Grabby and long on the finish; very likable value-priced Grenache. (Nov 2011)"
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$14.95
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FWR 87
Italy
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Piedmont
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Other
In stock, 12+ available
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87 points Fine Wine Review: "...the wine is exactly as it is supposed to be. The nose features spiced red cherry aromas. The mouth is medium-weight with red cherries and violets, and some steeliness to the texture. This is a good everyday wine, to serve slightly cool. 12% stated alcohol. (Issue #135/136; 2012)"
Bouquet: delicate but well defined, vinous, berries. Taste: dry, velvety, slightly almond, full, well balanced. More earth than fruit, good juice for the Old World wine lovers.
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$22.95
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WS 88
WE 88
WA 87
Austria
In stock, 12+ available
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List $29.00
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88 points Wine Spectator: "Crisp and rich, offering juicy flavors of ripe ruby grapefruit, peach and baked apple, with hints of apricot. Salt and pepper notes mark the finish. Drink now through 2016. (5/31/12)"
88 points Wine Enthusiast: "Sweet pure fruit, starring grapefruit flavors, is rounded with a more creamy character, and additional flavors of pear and fresh sliced melon, finished with pepper. abv: 12%. (Mar 2012)"
87 points David Schildknecht (Wine Advocate): "While the lightest Gruner Veltliner bottlings of this vintage at Brundlmayer were spare and overlain with green apple flavors, the 12% alcohol 2010 Gruner Veltliner Kamptaler Terrassen revealed a classic varietal nose of fresh green bean and lime, mingled with gooseberry more reminiscent of Sauvignon, all informing a juicy, brisk, firm palate and finishing with ample refreshment and invigoration as well as a bitter note of fruit pip. Enjoy it over the next 18-24 months. (Oct 2011)"
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$21.95
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WE 88
WA 87
W&S 87
Austria
In stock, 12+ available
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List $28.00
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88 points Wine Enthusiast: "[$28 list] There is a wonderful tang of range zest in this fresh and fruity wine. With its attractive perfumes and flavors of currants it is ready to drink now but could age for a few years. Screwcap. abv: 12%. (Mar 2012)"
87 points David Schildknecht (Wine Advocate): "Brundlmayer's 2009 Riesling Kamptaler Terrassen is pungently scented and piquantly flavored with lime zest, roux, and green apple, a strong sense of salinity helping to serve for mouthwatering refreshment in its finish. There is a palpable impression of high extract that helps the wine keep from coming off as too spare. I would plan to enjoy this over the next 18-24 months. (Oct 2011)"
87 points and 'Best Buy,' Wine & Spirits: "[$28 list] As light as lemon meringue yet as firm as steel, this is a simple, concise riesling, a refreshing pour for Friday night seafood suppers. (Apr 2012)"
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$7.95
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PG 87
Spain
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Red
In stock, 12+ available
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87 points Peñín Guide: "(90% monastrell, 10% syrah). Colour: cherry, purple rim. Nose: fresh fruit, red berry notes, scrubland. Palate: flavourful, fruity, good acidity, round tannins. (2012)"
Producer notes: "Campos de Risca is essentially Monastrell, with blends of wines from different plots to give its complex character. Very small proportions of Syrah may be added in some vintages for complexity and balance."
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$16.95
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WE 87
JS 87
United States
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Sauvignon Blanc & Aromatic Whites
In stock, 12+ available
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List $20.00
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87 points Wine Enthusiast: "[$20 list] Hard to believe there’s no oak on this Pinot Gris. It has an elaborate layer of vanilla that must come from the grapes. However, the main flavors are tropical fruits, apricots and honeysuckle flowers. The sweetness level is between dry and off dry. 455 cases produced. Alcohol 14.0%. (Dec 2011)"
87 points James Suckling: "Pretty sliced apple and peaches on the nose and palate. Turns a little fruit cocktail like but attractive. (12/12/11)"
Producer notes: "This Pinot Gris was cold fermented in stainless steel and aged only five months. The 2010 Carr Pinot Gris has aromas of baked apples, citrus zest, ripe pears, apricots and mineral notes with a round soft mid-palate and a long finish. 455 cases produced."
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$17.95
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WA 87–89
Italy
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Tuscany
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Other
In stock, 12+ available
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87-89 points Antonio Galloni (Wine Advocate): "I tasted the 2010 Rosso di Casanova di Neri from tank just a few days before it was scheduled to be bottled. Dark cherries, plums, flowers and spices literally jump out of the glass in this vinous, bright red. The 2010 Rosso is a great, budget-priced wine from Giacomo Neri. The blend is 95% Sangiovese and 5% Colorino. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2016. (Apr 2012)"
Producer notes: "A blend of 90% Sangiovese and 10% Colorino grown in the Sant'Antimo appellation which lies just beyond the southernmost border of Brunello. The blend presents compelling notes of dark cherries, smoke and tar. This full-bodied red is powerful yet elegant."
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$7.95
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WA 86
Spain
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Red
In stock, 12+ available
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List $12.00
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This 100% Garnacha from 30- to 50-year-old vines comes from a co-op in the Cariñena DO of Aragón region with 40 different growers. An incredible bargain, it has no barrel influence, and is very fresh and fruity on the nose with cherry pie like fruit and fresh rose floral notes. Smooth and velvety on the tongue with a nice freshness. Simple with pretty floral notes.
86 points Jay Miller (Wine Advocate): "[$12 list] The 2010 Garnacha spent 3-6 months in American oak. Aromas of rose petals and black cherries inform the nose of a grapy, ripe, easy-going red to pair with pizzas and burgers over the next 3 years. (Jun 2011)"
'Best Buy,' Wine Enthusiast: "Floral berry aromas are fresh and carry only the slightest grassy, green element. The wine feels crisp and tight, with nice red plum and raspberry flavors. Mild, focused and not very hefty or thick on the finish. (12/31/12)"
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$9.95
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WE 87
France
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Bordeaux
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Red
In stock, 12+ available
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List $12.00
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'Best Buy' and 87 points Wine Enthusiast: "[$12 list] With soft tannins, this wine has a full, fleshy character that’s laced with acidity. Black currant fruits and only hints of dryness suggest it is ready to drink. (Sep 2012)"
60% Merlot, 30% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Cabernet Franc. Lovely fresh fruit; rich intense and vivid with more red fruit than black. Plenty of concentration on the palate. A big wine with lots of fruit and tannin. Serving Suggestions: Sauteed mushrooms, pate, artisanal cheeses and light pork preparations.
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$9.95
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WS 87
Argentina
In stock, 12+ available
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List $12.00
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87 points Wine Spectator: "[$12 list] Medium-bodied, yet with a solid core of racy blackberry and cassis fruit that's vibrant and fresh, with touches of wild herb and tarry mineral on the finish. Drink now. (10/31/11)"
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$12.95
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WA 88
Italy
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Sicily
In stock, 12+ available
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List $15.00
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88+ points Antonio Galloni (Wine Advocate): "[$15 list] The 2010 Nero d'Avola is a highly attractive unoaked red. It flows with expressive layers of perfumed varietal fruit, flowers and mint. The 2010 is a touch firm at this stage, most likely owing to its recent bottling. Anticipated maturity: 2011-2014. (Jun 2011)"
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